Professional Documents
Culture Documents
REV A00.
(12th July, 2017)
SERIAL NUMBER
REGISTRATION NUMBER
Performance - Specifications
ALPHA Electro 60 kW Electric
Stall speed (flaps extended) 35 kts (64 km/h)
Stall speed (flaps retracted) 43 kts (74 km/h)
Typical cruise speed 85 kts (157 km/h)
VNE 135 kts (250 km/h)
Standard endurance, traffic patterns 55 min + 30 min. reserve
Standard range at cruise 85 kts 65 NM (120 km)
Takeoff - ground roll - at MTOM 459 ft (140 m)
Takeoff total distance over 50 ft obst. at MTOM 738 ft (225 m)
Landing distance over 50 ft obst. 1510 ft (460 m)
Absolute ceiling at MTOM 12,800 ft (3900 m)
NOTE The above performance figures are based on an airplane weight of 1215 lbs (550 kg),
standard atmospheric conditions, level hard-surfaced dry runways and no wind. They are calcu-
lated values derived from flight tests conducted by Pipistrel d.o.o. Ajdovščina, under the super-
vision of the Slovenian CAA and under carefully documented conditions. Figures may vary based
on numerous factors (surface condition, temperature, water on wing, etc).
Coverage
The Pilot’s Operating Handbook (POH), found in the airplane at the time of delivery from Pipistrel
d.o.o. Ajdovščina, contains information applicable to the ALPHA Electro airplane and to the airframe
designated by the serial number and registration number shown on the title page. All information is
based on data available at the time of publication.
This POH consists of ten sections that cover all operational aspects of a standardly equipped air-
plane. Section 10 contains the supplements which provide amended operating procedures, perfor-
mance data and other necessary information for those airplanes that conduct special operations
and/or are equipped with both standard and optional equipment. Additional supplements are indi-
vidual documents which are issued/revised separately. The log of effective pages should be used to
determine the status of each supplement.
Revised material is marked with a vertical double-bar that will extend the full length of deleted,
new, or revised text added to new or previously existing pages. This marker will be located adjacent
to the applicable text in the marking on the outer side of the page. The same system applies when
the header, figure, or any other element inside this POH is revised. A list of revisions is located at the
beginning of the log of effective pages. Pipistrel is not responsible for technical changes/updates to
OEM manuals supplied with the aircraft (eg. radio, transponder, GPS, etc.).
Username: owner1
Password: ab2008
www.pipistrel.eu ALPHA Electro i-4
REV. 0
Index of revisions
The table below shows the revision history of this POH. Check your registration authority’s or the man-
ufacturer’s website occasionally for the most up-to-date releases of operation-relevant documentation,
which includes this POH.
Page number Page status Rev. number Page number Page status Rev. number
Cover Original 0 3-5 Original 0
i-1 Blank Page - 3-6 Original 0
i-2 Original 0 3-7 Original 0
i-3 Original 0 3-8 Original 0
i-4 Original 0 3-9 Original 0
i-5 Original 0 3-10 Original 0
i-6 Original 0 3-11 Original 0
i-7 Blank Page - 3-12 Blank Page -
0-1 Original 0 4-1 Original 0
0-2 Blank Page - 4-2 Original 0
1-1 Original 0 4-3 Original 0
1-2 Original 0 4-4 Original 0
1-3 Original 0 5-1 Original 0
1-4 Original 0 5-2 Original 0
1-5 Original 0 5-3 Original 0
1-6 Original 0 5-4 Original 0
2-1 Original 0 5-5 Original 0
2-2 Original 0 5-6 Original 0
2-3 Original 0 6-1 Original 0
2-4 Original 0 6-2 Original 0
2-5 Original 0 6-3 Original 0
2-6 Original 0 6-4 Original 0
2-7 Original 0 7-1 Original 0
2-8 Original 0 7-2 Original 0
2-9 Original 0 7-3 Original 0
2-10 Original 0 7-4 Original 0
3-1 Original 0 7-5 Original 0
3-2 Original 0 7-6 Original 0
3-3 Original 0 7-7 Original 0
3-4 Original 0 7-8 Original 0
CAUTION!
This manual is valid only if it contains all of the original and revised pages listed above.
Each page to be revised must be removed, shredded and later replaced with the new, revised page in
the exact same place in the manual.
www.pipistrel.eu ALPHA Electro i-6
REV. 0
Table of contents
1 General
3 Operating limitations
5 Performance
6 Emergency procedures
7 Normal procedures
9 Appendix
This page is intentionally left blank.
www.pipistrel.eu ALPHA Electro 1-1
General REV. 0
1 General
Introduction (1-2)
Technical brief (1-2)
3-view drawing (1-3)
Powerplant (1-4)
Weights (1-6)
Center of gravity range (1-6)
G-load factors (1-6)
1-2 ALPHA Electro www.pipistrel.eu
REV. 0 General
Introduction
This manual contains all the information needed for appropriate and safe use of ALPHA Electro .
Pipistrel d.o.o. Ajdovščina is not responsible for any damage or injury resulting from not following
the instructions contained in this manual.
All text, design, layout and graphics are owned by Pipistrel d.o.o. Ajdovščina. All rights reserved.
Reproduction or disclosure to third parties of this document or any part therof is not permitted, ex-
cept with the prior and express written permission of Pipistrel d.o.o Ajdovščina.
Technical brief
DIMENSIONS ALPHA Electro
Wing span 34’ 6’’ (10.5 m)
Length 21’ 4’’ (6.5 m)
Height 6’’ 9’ (2.05 m)
Wing surface 102 sqft (9.51 m2)
Vertical fin surface 11.8 sqft (1.1 m2)
Horizontal stabilizer and elevator surface 11.6 sqft (1.08 m2)
Aspect ratio 11.8
Positive flap deflection (down) 15 °, 25 °
Center of gravity (MAC) 20% - 38%
www.pipistrel.eu ALPHA Electro 1-3
General REV. 0
3-view drawing
1-4 ALPHA Electro www.pipistrel.eu
REV. 0 General
Motor
TEMPERATURE °C PEM 60MVLC
Maximum takeoff power (1 min) 60 kW
Maximum continuous power 50 kW
Maximum operating temperature 90° C
Maximum ambient temperature 40° C
RPM PEM 60MVLC
Maximum allowable rpm 2500
Takeoff RPM (typical) 2400
Climb RPM (typical) 2250
Controller
POWER CONTROLLER H300A
Nominal power 60 kW
Maximum operating temperature 65° C
Maximum ambient temperature 40° C
WARNING! DO NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, ATTEMPT TO USE ANY OTHER BATTERIES
OTHER THAN PIPISTREL FACTORY-SUPPLIED BATTERIES. ONLY USE THEM WITH THE MOTOR AND
CONTROLLER MENTIONED IN THIS POH.
Battery system
Battery system PB345V105E-A
Maximum voltage 398 V
Minimum voltage 288 V
Recommended voltage range for storage 355 V - 365 V
Maximum operating temperature 55° C
Minimum operating temperature 5° C
Allowable temperature range for storage 10°C - 40° C
Minimum charging temperature 0° C
Propeller
ALPHA Electro FP03-60E
three blade, fixed pitch propeller (wooden or composite) 1640 mm
Red line Yellow arc Green arc Yellow arc Red line
Instrument
(minimum) (caution) (normal) (caution) (maximum)
Tachometer (RPM) / / 0-2399 2400-2499 2500
Motor temp. (°C) / / -20 - 89 90-94 95
Controller temp. (°C) / / -20 - 59 60-64 65
Battery sys. temp. (°C) 5 6-10 11-49 50-54 55
Weight limits
Basic model weights
WEIGHT ELECTRO
Empty aircraft weight (incl. PRS), std. battery system 379 kg
Max. takeoff weight (MTOW/MTOM) 550 kg
Minimum combined cockpit crew weight (depends on C.G. of empty aircraft) see p. 55
Maximum combined cockpit crew weight (depends on C.G. of empty aircraft) see p. 55
G-load factors
Max. positive wing load: +4G
Max. negative wing load: –2G
All parts have been tested to a safety factor of a minimum 1.875, meaning they were subjected to at
least a load of 7.5 G
www.pipistrel.eu ALPHA Electro 2-1
Aircraft and Systems REV. 0
Undercarriage (2-6)
Introduction
The ALPHA Electro is a 34’ 6’’ (10.5 m) wing- capable of energy recuperation during de-
span, two-seat T-tail high-wing motorplane scent.
made almost entirely of composite materials.
The windshield, doors and top window are
It has a robust, tricycle undercarriage that made of 2 mm anti-UV tinted Lexan, which was
incorporates brake-equipped wheels, a specially developed not to shatter or split on
U-shaped composite strut and a steerable nose impact.
wheel.
The main wheel brakes are hydraulically driven
The ALPHA Electro features flaperons, mean- disc type and activated via a cockpit hand-le-
ing that one movable surface on each wing ver. The hydraulic brake fluid used is DOT 3 or
acts both as the flap and the aileron. Flaps offer DOT 4.
3 settings: retracted 0o, +15o and + 25o.
Cabin ventilation is achieved through special
Full dual main flight control levers make the vents fitted into the doors
ALPHA Electro ideal for initial and advanced
flight training. All aileron, elevator and flap The propeller is a fixed pitch three-blade de-
controls are connected to the cabin controls sign.
using self-fitting push-pull tubes. The rudder is
controlled via cables. The elevator trim is a me- The resettable electric circuit breakers enable
chanical, spring type mechanism. the pilot to test individual circuit items and
disconnect the batteries from the circuit if re-
All aircraft ship with H type safety belts at- quired.
tached to the fuselage at three mounting
points. The rudder pedals can be adjusted Navigational (NAV) lights, anti collision (AC)
before and also in-flight to suit your size and lights and a landing (LDG) light are installed.
needs.
The firewall is reinforced with heat and noise
The aircraft is equipped with two battery box- insulation.
es: one is located aft of the cabin bulkhead and
the other is aft of the firewall. The battery sys- Basic instruments come installed with opera-
tem is ventilated and thermally protected. tional limits pre-designated.
STICK
RIGHT WING
Fabric: GG160, GG200, GG300, 90070, 92120, 91125, 92140, 92145, KHW200
Roving: NF24
Foam: 55kg/m3, 75 kg/m3 PVC 3mm, PVC 5 mm, PVC 8mm
GFK: 3 mm, 5 mm, 7 mm of thickness
Paint: acrylic paint
Firewall glass-aluminium sandwich
Tubes: materials: Fe0146, Fe 0147, Fe0545, Fe1430, AC 100, CR41 and LN9369
Sheet metal: materials: Fe0147 and Al 3571
Rods: materials: Fe 1221, Fe 4732, Č4130, Al 6082, CR41 in Al 6362
Cable: AISI 316
Bolts and nuts: 8.8 steel
All composite parts are made of glass, carbon and kevlar fiber manufactured by Interglas GmbH and
Sigratex carbon.
Cockpit controls
The ALPHA Electro cockpit levers are divided into two groups:
FRONT LEXAN
INSTRUMENT PANEL
RIGHT DOOR
TRIM LEVER
LEFT DOOR
RIGHT PEDALS
LEFT PEDALS
LEFT PILOT STICK THROTTLE LEVER
RIGHT PILOT STICK
LEFT DOOR LEVER
RIGHT DOOR LEVER
Elevator trim
control plate
ELT
EPSI570
ATC
Tachometer DW MODE
Variometer
HORIS
EPSI570
Radio Transponder
Air Brakes
( optional) Slip indicator
www.pipistrel.eu ALPHA Electro 2-5
Aircraft and Systems REV. 0
The instrument panel is equipped with various instruments/gauges that indicate airspeed, altitude,
RPM, etc.. Depending on whether the aircraft has a US or NON-US instrument configuration, options
include: artificial horizon, EPSI 570 electric system parameters (monitors RPM, inverter temperature,
motor temperature, coolant temperature, state of charge, battery temperature and state of health),
radio Filser ATR833 or Garmin GTR200, transponder Filser TRT800A or Garmin GTX335 and the GPS
Garmin AERA 660. Instructions on how to use the instruments/gauges (COM, GPS) are found in in-
dividual equipment manuals, which are to be considered supplement to this POH. The gauges are
round and 80 mm or 57 mm in diameter, while the GPS has a touchscreen. The radio is a modern
lightweight unit, features full VOX intercom and dual PTT connections.
When using the cockpit electrical system panel, use the following sequence:
MOTOR START-UP MOTOR SHUT-DOWN
MASTER SWITCH ON OTHER SWITCHES OFF
AVIONICS SWITCH ON THROTTLE ENABLE SWITCH OFF
POWER ENABLE SWITCH ON POWER ENABLE SWITCH OFF
THROTTLE ENABLE SWITCH ON AVIONICS SWITCH OFF
OTHER SWITCHES ON as desired MASTER SWITCH OFF
NOTE PULL OUT ALL OF THE CIRCUIT BREAKERS IF THE MOTOR AND/OR ANY OTHER EQUIP-
MENT ON THE AIRCRAFT REMAINS ON AFTER THE MASTER SWITCH IS TURNED OFF. REINSERT
THEM BEFORE COMMENCING WITH THE NEXT MOTOR START-UP.
Undercarriage
The tricyle undercarriage incorporates brake-equipped wheels, a U-shaped composite strut and a
steerable nose wheel. The rudder pedals are used to steer the nose wheel.
The parking brake is applied using a lock pin on the handbrake lever. To apply it, pull the handbrake
lever firmly and, while holding it back, slide the lock pin downwards into it’s respective groove. To
release it, simply pull back on the handbrake lever, pull the lock pin out of it’s groove and release
handbrake lever.
Pitot-static system
The Pitot-static tube is attached to the bottom side of the starboard wing. The Pitot lines run through
the inside of the wing all the way to the instrument panel.
www.pipistrel.eu ALPHA Electro 2-7
Aircraft and Systems REV. 0
The system is controlled by a color-display EPSI570 cockpit interface instrument. It indicates the
drive mode and important parameters to the pilot. The EPSI570 also communicates with the Battery-
Management-System (BMS) and delivers information about the state of charge (SOC), battery state
of health (SOH) and monitors the charging. All components communicate via the CAN interface with
a proprietary communication protocol.
Motor:
Controller:
POWER CONTROLLER H300A
Nominal power 60 kW
Maximum operating temperature 65° C
Maximum ambient temperature 40° C
WARNING! DO NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, ATTEMPT TO USE ANY OTHER BATTERIES
OTHER THAN PIPISTREL FACTORY-SUPPLIED BATTERIES. ONLY USE THEM WITH THE MOTOR AND
CONTROLLER MENTIONED IN THIS POH.
Propeller type:
FP03-60E three blade, fixed pitch propeller (wooden or composite), diameter 1640 mm
2-8 ALPHA Electro www.pipistrel.eu
REV. 0 Aircraft and Systems
CAUTION! IN ORDER TO MAINTAIN BATTERY LIFE, DISCHARGING THE BATTERY BELOW 20%
CHARGE IS NOT RECOMMENDED. THE USEFUL RANGE IS CONSIDERED TO BE BETWEEN 20%-
100% OF SYSTEM CHARGE.
CAUTION! ONCE THE BATTERIES REACH 0% SOC, THEY WILL BE DISCONNECTED FROM THE
SYSTEM. THE 12V BATTERY SUPPLYING AVIONICS AND AUXILIARY SYSTEMS WILL STILL BE
AVAILABLE.
The batteries are housed in 2 metal boxes, which contain the battery cells, the BMS and communi-
cation modules, as well as the power and signal connectors. One of the boxes is positioned firewall
forward, while the other is aft of the cabin bulkhead. Be sure to always position the box in the same
location, as they’re not interchangeable. Make sure that all the connectors (2x power connectors,
2x CAN BUS connector, one of each per box) are fastened properly before each flight, as indicated in
the EPSI570.
State of health (SOH): SOH is a measure of usable energy in the batteries. It’s related to battery age,
temperature and how properly the batteries have been used.
State of charge (SOC): SOC is an indication of the current charge level given the batteries current
capablity, which depends on SOH
WARNING! IF YOU HAVE PURCHASED ANOTHER SET OF BATTERIES, MAKE SURE YOU DO
NOT MIX THE BOXES BETWEEN SETS. THE SAME GROUP OF 2 BOXES MUST ALWAYS BE USED!
Charging
The charger is a dedicated charger ranging from 3.3kW to 20kW charging power. Charge time will
vary upon battery charge status and may be between 30 minutes to up to 2 hours. The charger is a
world-wide charger and a portable unit which can be connected to any 110V and 240V, 50 Hz or 60
Hz electrical grid or the Solar Trailer.
NOTE AFTER PERFORMING A FULL CHARGE, DO NOT KEEP THE BATTERY CHARGED ABOVE
80% STATE OF CHARGE (SOC) FOR MORE THAN 5 DAYS. EITHER PERFORM A FLIGHT OR RUN
THE MOTOR TO DISCHARGE THE BATTERY TO THE RECOMMENDED 50-80% SOC FOR STORAGE.
IN ORDER TO PROLONG THE BATTERY LIFE, IT IS NOT RECOMMENDED TO DISCHARGE THE BAT-
TERY BELOW 20% SOC. USEFUL RANGE IS CONSIDERED TO BE BETWEEN 20-100% SOC.
- Repeat the same procedure as outlined in FULL CHARGE PROCEDURE, but instead of “FULL
CHARGE” mode select “REST CHARGE” mode on the charger display.
- This will charge the battery to an optimum level for aircraft storage.
NOTE AFTER A PERIOD OF NO-FLYING ACTIVITY, PERFORM A FULL CHARGE 24 HOUR BEFORE ACTUAL FLIGHT.
2-10 ALPHA Electro www.pipistrel.eu
REV. 0 Aircraft and Systems
Parking brake function is applied using a lock pin on the handbrake lever. To apply the parking
brake, pull handbrake lever firmly and, while holding it back, slide the lock pin downwards into it’s
respective groove. To release it, simply pull back on the handbrake lever, pull the lock pin out of it’s
groove and release handbrake lever.
www.pipistrel.eu ALPHA Electro 3-1
Limitations REV. 0
3 Limitations
Introduction (3-2)
Airspeed limitations (3-2)
Powerplant limitations (3-3)
Weight limits (3-4)
Center of gravity range (3-4)
G-load factors (3-5)
Service ceiling, crosswind (3-5)
Maneuver limits (3-5)
Kinds of operations (3-6)
Minimum equipment list (3-6)
Energy limitations (3-6)
Other restrictions (3-7)
Placards (3-8)
3-2 ALPHA Electro www.pipistrel.eu
REV. 0 Limitations
Introduction
This section includes operating limitations, instrument markings and basic placards necessary for
the safe operation of the airplane, it’s motor, standard system and standard equipment.
Adhering to the limitations outlined in this section is required by law.
Airspeed limitations
IAS
Velocity Remarks
[kts (km/h)]
VS Stall speed clean 43 (74) Stall speed flap up.
Stall speed landing
VS0 configuration 35 (64) Stall speed flaps full.
Yellow band
108 - 135 Maneuver the aircraft with caution in calm air only.
(201 - 250)
Red line
135 Maximum speed for all operations. VNE
(250)
Blue line 76 (140) Best climb rate speed (VY )
www.pipistrel.eu ALPHA Electro 3-3
Limitations REV. 0
Powerplant limitations
WARNING! The motor is not certified for aviation use, therefore, there is no assur-
ance it cannot fail in its operation at any given moment, without prior notice.
Motor
TEMPERATURE °C PEM 60MVLC
Maximum takeoff power (1 min) 60 kW
Maximum continuous power 50 kW
Maximum operating temperature 90° C
Maximum ambient temperature 40° C
RPM PEM 60MVLC
Maximum allowable 2500
Takeoff RPM (typical) 2400
Climb RPM (typical) 2250
Controller
POWER CONTROLLER H300A
Nominal power 60 kW
Maximum operating temperature 65° C
Maximum ambient temperature 40° C
WARNING! DO NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, ATTEMPT TO USE ANY OTHER BATTERIES
OTHER THAN PIPISTREL FACTORY-SUPPLIED BATTERIES. ONLY USE THEM WITH THE MOTOR AND
CONTROLLER MENTIONED IN THIS POH.
Battery system
Battery system PB345V105E-A
Maximum voltage 403 V
Minimum voltage 288 V
Recommended voltage range for storage 355 V - 365 V
Maximum operating temperature 60° C
Minimum operating temperature 5° C
Allowable temperature range for storage 10°C - 40° C
Minimum charging temperature 0° C
Propeller
ALPHA Electro Propeller
three blade, fixed pitch propeller (wooden or compos-
with 60 kW electric motor
ite, diameter 1640 mm
Weight limits
Basic model weights
WEIGHT ELECTRO
Empty aircraft weight (incl. PRS and std. battery system) 379 kg
Max. takeoff weight (MTOW/MTOM) 550 kg
Minimum combined cockpit crew weight (depends on C.G. of empty aircraft) see p. 55
Maximum combined cockpit crew weight (depends on C.G. of empty aircraft) see p. 55
G-load factors
Max. positive wing load: +4G
Max. negative wing load: –2G
All parts have been tested to a safety factor of a minimum 1.875, meaning they were subjected to at
least a load of 7.5 G
Maneuver limits
The ALPHA Electro is approved as a Light Sport Aircraft and is intended for recreational
and instructional flight operations.
Power-on and -off stalls not below 1500 feet (450 meters) above ground level.
Power on and off lazy eights not below 1500 feet (450 meters) above ground level,
entry speed 90 kts
CAUTION! Intentional flying with both cabin doors open is prohibited. Flying with one door
open in flight is approved with airspeeds up to 60 kts, flying with one door removed is approved
without changes to the limitations of the normal operational envelope.
3-6 ALPHA Electro www.pipistrel.eu
REV. 0 Limitations
Kinds of operations
ALPHA Electro is approved for DAY - VFR operations only. Flight into
known icing conditions is prohibited.
WARNING! Should you find water drops on the airframe during pre-flight check-up at
temperatures close to freezing, you may expect icing to appear in flight.
• EPSI570
Energy limitations
Description: 2 metal boxes which include battery cells,
BMS and communication modules,
power and signal connectors
Total battery capacity: 21.0 kWh
Useful bat. capacity: 20.0 kWh
Maximum power with one battery box connected 35 kW
NOTE The system will function with only one of the battery boxes connected, however, the
power output must be kept below 35 kW.
Other restrictions
Due to flight safety reasons it is forbidden to:
• fly in a blizzard
• fly according to instrument flight rules (IFR) or attempt to fly in zero visibility condi-
tions (IMC)
• fly when the temperature of the aircraft´s surface is at risk of exceeding 55°C (130°F)
DEPLOYMENT INSI
REV. 0 Limitations
Thi
TER DRAIN
WARNING
Placards /W
A V with
ball
AL
Placards ( external):
EL
VE
1111083_ALPHA_TRAINER
FU
Next to door opening latches:
OPEN
CLOSE
CLOSE
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111083_ALPHA_TRAINER
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V
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SI
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Next to wheels:
DEPLOYMENT This
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ballistic
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MAX 0.8 bar balli
E
MAX 18 psi
DEPLOYMENT INSIDE
MAX 12 psi
DEPLOYMENT INSIDE
MAX 1.8 bar MAX 1.8 bar
ATTENTION!
MAX 26 psi MAX 26 psi ROCKET INSIDE
This aircraft is equipped
TER DRAIN This
WARNING
WARNING
W 50 % T
ANTIFREEZE
Nextballistic
to battery
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Refer to ROTAX manual
CATE
www.pipistrel.eu ALPHA Electro 3-9
D CH
Limitations REV. 0
EL.EU
A R
R
G
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PI
E PORT - U
. LY
W WW
On junction G !
H A box and battery
R SE packs:
C
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OPEN -- WARRANTY
WARRANTY VOID
ST
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R
HA
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DO NOT
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OPEN -- WARRANTY
WARRANTY VOID
VOID
D
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Engine instrument EPSI570
SN: HIGH VOLTAGE
1111173_ALPHA_ELECTRO
R TR
CLOSED OPEN R L
S
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DO
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OPEN -- WARRANTY
WARRANTY VOID
VOID
ED C H A R (65 km/h)
ICAT
DE
D DO
DO NOT
GE
NOTR1111083_ALPHA_TRAINER
1111083_ALPHA_TRAINER
OPEN
OPEN -- WARRANTY
WARRANTY VOID
VOID DANGER
E
ON
CAUTION!
CAUTION!
GE PORT - US
DANGER
LY
DO NOT
NOT OPEN
DO instrument -- WARRANTY
WARRANTY VOID
OPENEPSI570 VOID
FUEL
FUEL
!
Engine
ENGAGE
ENGAGE FUEL
FUEL
STARTUP,
STARTUP,
PUMP
PUMP FOR
FOR
TAKEOFF SN:
TAKEOFF
HIGH VOLT
WW
ANDAND LANDING
LANDING
Placards ( center console):
Engine instrument EPSI570
W
HIGH VOLT
A R
.P
CLOSED OPEN
SN:
CH
IP
IST
R HEADSET
T REL
FAS .EU
35
CLOSED
OPEN OPEN
CLOSED R MIC
HEADSET
OPEN CLOSED
65
GE
R MIC
On flap lever:
CLOSED
CLOSED OPEN
OPEN R RHEADSET
HEADSETL L
CLOSED
CAUTION!
AND LANDING
CL
DEPLOYMENT INSID
ROCKET FOR PARACH
www.pipistrel.eu ALPHA Electro 3-11
R L is equippe
Limitations REV. 0
ALPHA_TRAINER HEADSET
This aircraft
TER DRAIN
WARNING
A V with a rocket powered
/W R HEADSETballistic
L rescue system
RESS CLOSED CLOSED OPEN OPEN R MIC L
AL
EL
Next to wheel brake lever: Next to parking brake lever:
VE
FU
OPEN CLOSED R MIC L
OPENOPEN
CLOSED
CLOSE
R
OPEN
CLOSED
GE
CLOSED OPEN
N
50 % ANTIFREEZE
MAX 26 psi
MAX 18 psi
ballistic
Placards (Ballistic PRS): rescue system. V
/W
3.5 l OIL
I
OPEN PULL FOR PARACHUTE
CLOSED
S
E
DEPLOYMENT
ATE
IVINSIDE
DEPLOYMENT
O
EGRESS
PL
R DRAIN
MAX 0.8 bar
MAX 1.8 bar
MAX 12 psi
EX
MAX 26 psi
OPEN
CLOSED
MAX 1.2 bar MAX 0.8 bar
MAX 18 psi This aircraft is equipped
MAX 12 psi
E
AI N
WARNING
V with ATTENTION!
a rocket powered DA
ROCKET GAS
V
EG
ER
CLOSE
RE
VE
ROCKET FOR
1111083_ALPHA_TRAINER
50 % ANTIFREEZE
PL
SROCKET
PEN + 50 % WATER
CLOSED
CLOSE
WARNING
EGRESS
S
EX
ATTENTION!
DANGER
3.5 l OIL DEPLOYMENT INSIDE
V
OPEN
OPEN
CLOSED
INSIDE
NG
RACHUTE
L
with a rocke
DA
EXHAUST
_ALPHA_TRAINER
ROCKET FOR PARACHUTE
EX
bar
ballistic resc
CLOSED
psi
CLOSEDROCKET GASOPEN
DEPLOYMENT INSIDE
GRESS ATTENTION!
OPEN
bar
psi ROCKET INSIDE EXHAUST
This aircraft
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WARNING
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STARTUP, TAKEOFF
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CAUTION!
OPEN
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Next toThis
activation handle (cockpit)
aircraft is equipped
RAIN
WARNING
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PULL a FOR
rocket powered
PARACHUTE
ballistic rescue system.
DEPLOYMENT
AL
VE
Introduction
This section describes the procedure for establishing the basic empty weight and moment of the air-
plane. Sample calculations are provided for reference. Specific information regarding the weight and
arm for this airplane as delivered from the factory can be found in the aircraft documentation folder,
look for Weight and Balance Report.
WARNING! It is the responsibility of the pilot to make sure the airplane is loaded properly.
Operation outside of the prescribed weight and balance limitations could result in an accident
and serious or fatal injury.
Weighing procedure
Make sure all listed aircraft parts and appliances are installed and in position.
Remove all other objects (e.g. tools, rags, tie downs and other items ...).
Install batteries.
Retract flaps and leave control surfaces centerd.
Level the aircraft inside a closed space - use the upper edge of the door frame as a levelling refer-
ence.
Once leveled, read the scale readings and subtract eventual tare weight.
Now record all readings and fill out the bottom table.
The datum is the wing's leading edge at the fuselage root. Calculate the lever arm of CG using
this formula:
R
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Weight and balance REV. 0
Equipment list
The aircraft’s empty weight data is unique for each and every ALPHA Electro delivered. The owner is
responsible for keeping the equipment list up to date. Fill it out according to actual status.
ALPHA Electro
Serial number:
Registration number:
Equipment installed:
Determination of CG
Weight’s lever Moment
Weight (kg) Remarks
arm (mm) (inch x lbs)
Basic cfg. empty weight
Instruments - 330 minus!!!
Pilots 360
Battery front - 450 minus!!!
Battery back 1250
CAUTION! Each newly installed part or appliance must be registered in the upper table. Also,
the new total weight and lever arm of CG values must be entered and the position of CG re-de-
termined. Furthermore, the moment must be recalculated. This is rather easy to do. First multiply
the new part’s weight by it’s lever arm measured from the reference point (wing’s leading edge).
Then sum up all moments and divide the sum by the new total weight.
WARNING! The aircraft's safe center of gravity position ranges between 7.7'' (195 mm) and
14.5'' (368 mm) aft of datum and is not critically affected by cockpit crew weight.
WARNING! Storing luggage or any other items in the battery bays is strictly prohibited!
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REV. 0 Weight and balance
Guidelines
Gtotal is the total mass of empty aircraft. All calculations can be performed with aircraft empty
weight and empty weight center of gravity (c.g.), as the pilots sit directly below the center of gravity
and do not cause the c.g. to be shifted.
First, weigh the aircraft according to the procedure described in this chapter and write down values
of G1 (sum of scale readings at main wheels) and G2 (scale reading at tail/front wheel). Then calculate
the position of c.g. in millimeters (mm) from the datum (wing’s leading edge at wing root).
( )
( ) ( )
where:
a is the distance from nose wheel axis to wing’s leading edge,
b is the distance from main wheel axis to wing’s leading edge,
( )
( ) ( )
Second, determine the c.g. position in percentage (%) of Mean Aerodynamic Chord (MAC) with fol-
lowing the formula:
where:
CGmm is the position of CG in millimeters (mm),
R is the difference between wing’s leading edge and MAC’s leading edge (40 mm),
MAC is the Mean Aerodynamic Chord (900 mm).
www.pipistrel.eu ALPHA Electro 5-1
Performance REV. 0
5 Performance
Introduction (5-2)
Cruise (5-5)
Descent (5-5)
Introduction
This section provides information about the aircraft’s airspeed calibration, stall speeds and general
performance. All data published was obtained from test flight analysis using average flying skills.
The ALPHA Electro has demonstrated adequate motor cooling performance at ambient tempera-
tures of up to 40°C (104 F). This is not to be regarded as a temperature limit, however higher temper-
atures may have an adverse effect on motor cooling and overall performance.
Stall speeds
Stall speeds at MTOM (1210 lbs / 550 kg) for the ALPHA Electro are as follows:
Takeoff performance
All data published in this section was obtained under the following conditions:
Aircraft at MTOM
Elevation: sea level
Wind: calm
Runway: grass runway
Data extrapolated for ICAO standard atmosphere
Note:
In order to meet the data for takeoff runway length over 50 ft obstacle maintain Vx (52 kts,
98 km/h) after take off.
The runway length required for takeoff may vary depending on the wind, temperature, ele-
vation and wing & propeller surface condition.
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Effect of elevation
The table below provides data about the effect of elevation on takeoff runway length.
WARNING: The runway length required for takeoff depends on elevation and temperature.
Use the following formula to determine the runway length required: L = 1,10 • (Lh + Lt - L0).
Abbreviations are as follows:
Lh = takeoff runway length at present elevation, ISA standard conditions
Lt = takeoff runway length at sea level at same temperature/wind as on the given location,
L0 = zero wind takeoff runway length at 15°C at sea level.
e.g. if the outside temperature is 25°C and you are at 500 m elevation, your takeoff runway length
will be: L = 1,10 • (Lh + Lt - L0) = 1,10 • (205 m + 215 m - 180 m) = 264 meters.
Wind (head, cross or tailwind) affects aircraft’s ground speed (GS). Headwind during takeoff and land-
ing decrease the required runway length, as the GS is smaller during these two flight stages. Tailwind
has the opposite effect and increases the runway length required runway length for takeoff and land-
ing.
Every 3 kts (5 km/h) increase in headwind decreases the required takeoff and landing runway length
by 25 feet (8 m), (e.g. provided there is 6 kts (10 km/h) of headwind on takeoff and landing, distances
will be approximately 50 ft meters (16 meters) shorter than ones published in the manual).
Every 3 kts (5 km/h) increase in tailwind increases the required takeoff and landing runway length by
60-65 feet (18-20 meters), (e.g. provided there is 6 kts (10 km/h) of tailwind on takeoff or landing, dis-
tances will be approximately 120-130 feet (36-40 meters) longer then ones published in this manual).
WARNING! Tailwind affects takeoff and landing performance by more than twice as much as
headwind does.
The table below provides data about the effect of headwind (+) and tailwind (-) on the runway length
required for takeoff and landing (referenced for sea level conditions, airplane at MTOM). Relative ef-
fect is maintained at any elevation.
Windspeed (kts) -6 -4 -2 0 4 8 12
Takeoff runway length [ft]
ALPHA Electro 680 645 605 555 525 495 480
Takeoff distance over 50 ft / 15 m obstacle [ft]
ALPHA Electro 1130 1065 965 870 810 760 720
5-4 ALPHA Electro www.pipistrel.eu
REV. 0 Performance
Climb performance
ALPHA Electro ALPHA Electro
Best climb speed 76 kts (140 km/h)
Best climb rate at MTOM, sea level 1220 fpm (6.1 m/s)
Climb rate at 100 kts (185 km/h), sea level 800 fpm (4.0 m/s)
Effect of altitude
The table below provides data about the effect of elevation on climb rate at best climb speed Vy at
MTOM
NOTE Climb rate is measured at a max continuous motor power of 45 kW with the flaps re-
tracted (0°) at Vy and MTOM.
Climb performance may vary depending on, temperature, altitude, humidity and wing &
propeller surface condition.
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Performance REV. 0
Cruise
Aircraft at MTOM, recommended cruise power of 20-30 kW in international standard atmosphere
(ISA), sea level altitude, flaps retracted (0°):
Descent
The reference sink rate with flaps extended to 25o and power at idle, measures 440 fpm (2.2 m/h) at
50 kts (92 km/h).
The glide
The glide is defined as unpowered wings-level flight at the speed providing best lift over drag
ratio or minimum sink rate.
Should the motor become inoperative in flight, as a result of either intended or unintended actions,
and it cannot be restarted, react as follows:
- establish wings-level flight at the speed providing best lift over drag ratio, if you desire to
glide the greatest distance from a given altitude.
- establish wings-level flight at speed providing minimum sink rate, if you desire do stay air-
borne the longest. This may come in handy when you’re forced to give way to other aircraft or if you
simply need time to determine the most appropriate site to land out on.
CAUTION: If the motor fails, especially in climb, the aircraft always loses some 30 meters (100
feet) of altitude before reaching best glide speed in wings-level unpowered flight.
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Landing performance
Final approach speed should always be 55 kts (102 km/h) with flaps extended to 25o. The required
landing runway length may also vary depending on the elevation, gross weight, touchdown velocity,
wind direction and how aggressive the braking action is (i.e. recuperation).
The landing roll measures 410 ft (125 m) in the following conditions: aircraft at MTOM, airport at
sea level and wind calm. Should you be flying solo, the required landing runway length decreases
length shortens by another 30 ft (10 m).
Total landing distance over 50 ft/15 m obstacle measures 1510 feet (460 m).
Landing roll increases by10% for every 2000 ft (610 m) increase in density altitude.
Total landing distance increases by 2% for every 2000 ft (610 m) increase in density altitude.
Energy recuperation decreases required runway length and makes the approach steeper!
Crosswind takeoffs/landings
The maximum allowed crosswind speed on takeoff and landing with flaps extended 25o is 18 kts (33
km/h). The runway length required increases by 10% for every 5 kts of crosswind component.
www.pipistrel.eu ALPHA Electro 6-1
Emergency procedures REV. 0
6 Emergency procedures
Introduction (6-2)
Stall recovery (6-2)
Spin recovery (6-2)
Motor failure (6-2)
Emergency landing (6-3)
Fire (6-3)
Smoke in cockpit (6-4)
EPSI 570 failure (6-4)
Flutter (6-4)
Battery failure (6-4)
Exceeding VNE (6-4)
PRS (6-4)
6-2 ALPHA Electro www.pipistrel.eu
REV. 0 Emergency procedures
Introduction
This chapter provides information on how to react when confronted with typical flight hazards.
NOTE SEE THE APPENDIX OF THIS MANUAL FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF SYSTEM WARNINGS
AND ERRORS THAT CAN APPEAR ON THE EPSI-570 DURING OPERATION.
Stall recovery
First reduce the angle of attack by easing-off on the control stick, then
Spin recovery
The ALPHA Electro is constructed in such a manner that it is difficult to fly it into an inadvertent spin.
However, once spinning, react as follows:
1. If the motor is running, set throttle to idle (lever in full back position).
2. Apply full rudder deflection in the direction opposite to spin direction.
3. Lower the nose towards the ground to build up speed (stick forward).
4. As the aircraft stops spinning neutralise rudder deflection.
5. Slowly pull up and regain horizontal flight.
ALPHA Electro tends to recover from spin by itself after spinning about 90°.
WARNING! KEEP THE CONTROL STICK CENTERD ALONG ITS LATERAL AXIS (NO AILERON
DEFLECTIONS THROUGHOUT THE RECOVERY PHASE!). DO NOT ATTEMPT TO STOP THE AIR-
CRAFT FROM SPINNING. USE THE AILERONS INSTEAD OF THE RUDDER!
WARNING! AFTER THE AIRCRAFT STOP SPINNING, RECOVERING FROM THE DIVE MUST BE
PERFORMED USING GENTLE STICK MOVEMENTS (PULL), RATHER THAN OVERSTRESSING THE
AIRCRAFT. HOWEVER, VNE MUST NOT BE EXCEEDED DURING THIS MANEUVER.
Motor failure
Motor failure during takeoff or initial climb
Ensure proper airspeed by lowering the nose and land the aircraft in runway heading, avoiding even-
tual obstacles in your way. Set master switch to the OFF position. Land straight ahead.
WARNING! THE DECISION WHERE TO LAND WHEN LANDING OUT IS FINAL! CHANGING
YOUR MIND, EVEN IF YOU HAPPEN TO COME ACROSS A DIFFERENT, PERHAPS MORE APPRO-
PRIATE LANDING SITE, SHOULD BE YOUR LAST RESORT.
Emergency landing
1. Master switch OFF.
2. Fasten your seat harness tightly.
3. Approach and land with extreme caution with +10 km/h (+5 kts) airspeed reserve if
the chosen landing terrain length permits.
4. Leave the aircraft immediately after landing.
Fire
WARNING! ONLY USE WATERLESS FIRE EXTINGUISHING AGENTS, SUCH AS FOAM, TO
EXTINGUISH ANY FIRE ON THE AIRCRAFT. WATER MAY REACT WITH THE LITHIUM IN THE BAT-
TERIES AND MAKE THE FIRE WORSE!
WARNING! AFTER THE FIRE HAS BEEN EXTINGUISHED DO NOT ATTEMPT TO RESTART THE
MOTOR.
Smoke in cockpit
1. Set master switch to OFF.
2. Open all cabin vents for adequate breathing.
3. Land as soon as possible.
Flutter
Flutter is described as the oscillation of control surfaces. In most cases it is caused by abrupt con-
trol deflections at speeds close to or in excess of VNE. As it occurs, the ailerons, elevator or even the
whole aircraft start to vibrate violently.
Should flutter occur, pull on the stick and reduce power immediately!
Battery failure
With two battery boxes on board the battery system is automatically redundant. A failure of one
battery box will be displayed on EPSI570 as a warning and the system will automatically switch
to a single-battery mode, enabling continuation of flight. Power output will be reduced to 35 kW
and state of charged halved. Land as soon as practical and have the battery system verified by
authorised personnel.
Exceeding VNE
Should the VNE be exceeded, reduce airspeed slowly and continue flying using gentle control de-
flections. Land safely as soon as possible and have the aircraft verified for airworthiness by
authorised service personnel.
PRS
Upon pulling the rescue system handle, the aircraft’s electrical system, including the propulsion
system, disengages immediately. See the manufacturer’s (Prs) manual for additional emergency
instructions and guidelines.
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Normal procedures REV. 0
7 Normal procedures
Daily inspection (7-2)
Pre-flight inspection (7-2)
Cockpit pre-flight
inspection (7-5)
Normal procedures and
recommended speeds (7-5)
7-2 ALPHA Electro www.pipistrel.eu
REV. 0 Normal procedures
Daily inspection
The daily inspection is the same as the pre-flight inspection.
Pre-flight inspection
WARNING! Every single inspection mentioned in this chapter must be performed prior to
EVERY FLIGHT, regardless of when the previous flight took place!
The person responsible for the pre-flight inspection is the pilot, who is required to
perform the check-up in the utmost thorough and precise manner.
If the status of any of the parts and/or operations does not comply with conditions stated in this
chapter, the damage MUST be repaired prior to motor start-up. Disobeying these instructions
may result in serious additional damage to the plane and crew, including injury and loss of life!
2 4
1
21 22 5 6
20 7
19 18 17 10 9 8
16 11
15 12
14 13
1 Motor, motor cover 8 Right wing - trailing edge 15 Hor. tail surfaces (left)
2 Propeller 9 Right wing - continued 16 Fuselage, continued (left)
3 Spinner, nose wheel 10 Fuselage (RH side) 17 Batteries back
4 Batteries front 11 Fuselage, continued (right) 18 Left wing - continued
5 Undercarriage, RH wheel 12 Hor. tail surfaces (right) 19 Left wing - trailing edge
6 Right wing - leading edge 13 Vert. tail surfaces (right) 20 Left wingtip, lights
7 Right wingtip, lights 14 Vert. tail surfaces (left) 21 Left wing - leading edge
22 Undercarriage, LH wheel
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Normal procedures REV. 0
Batteries front 4
Battery boxes: inserted and 4 pins secured, door closed and latched.
Battery bay cooling inlet: free of all/any obstructions.
Battery box COM and PWR cables: connected.
Spinner 3
Propeller 2
Hub and blades: no mechanical damage (e.g. cracks), both immaculately clean
Bolts and nuts: secured
Undercarriage, wheels 5 22
Bolts: fastened
Landing gear strut: no mechanical damage (e.g. cracks), clean
Wheel: no mechanical damage (e.g. cracks), clean
Wheel axle and nut: fastened
Fluid line (hydraulic brakes): no mechanical damage and/or leakage
Tire: no cracks, adequate pressure
Batteries back 17
Surface condition: pristine, no cracks, impact spots, no paint and/or edge separations
Pitot tube: firmly attached, no mechanical damage or bends. Remove protection cover and make
sure it is not blocked or full of water.
Wing drain holes: make sure they are not blocked and clean accordingly.
Wingtip, lights 7 20
Surface condition: pristine, no cracks, impact spots, no paint and/or edge separations
Aileron: pristine surface, no cracks and/or impact spots, no paint abnormalities and edge separa-
tions, no vertical or horizontal free play, smooth and unobstructed deflections
Charger door 9 18
Fuselage, continued 11 16
Surface condition: pristine, no cracks, impact spots or bumps, no paint and/or edge separations
Hinges: no free play in any direction
Horizontal stabilizer attachment mechanism: fastened and secured
Mylar seals covering the gap between horizontal tail surfaces: in position
Elevator: smooth and unobstructed up-down movement, no side-to-side free play
Vertical fin bottom part: no cracks, impact spots or paint separations along main chord
Surface condition: pristine, no cracks, impact spots or bumps, no paint separations
Hinges: no free play in any direction
Rudder cable endings: intact, bolts in position
Mylar seals covering the gap between vertical tail surfaces: in position
Normal procedures
and recommended speeds
To enter the cabin, first lift the door all the way to the wing’s bottom surface. The silver knob will
grab and secure the door in position. Sit on the cabin’s edge and grab it to support your body. Drag
yourself onto the seat, lifting only one leg over the stick for best position. Immediately after posi-
tioning yourself in the seat, check that the position of the rudder pedals suits your size and needs.
Note that it’s also adjustable during flight.
To lower the door DO NOT attempt to grab and pull door’s handle, but gently pull the silver knob in-
stead. To secure the door, rotate the handle so that it locks and verify that all three closing points are
secured.
Adjust the rudder pedals according to your required legroom. Sit inside the cockpit and release the
pressure off the pedals. Pull the black knob in front of the control stick to bring the pedals closer to
you. To move the pedals further away, first release the pressure of the pedals, then pull on the knob
slightly (this will release the locking mechanism). Now push the pedals forward using your feet,
while simultaneously pulling on the black adjustment knob.
7-6 ALPHA Electro www.pipistrel.eu
REV. 0 Normal procedures
WARNING! Tighten both the bottom and shoulder straps of the safety harness so that you’re
completely secured in your seat. This is especially important when flying in turbulent conditions,
as turbulence can cause injury to passengers not wearing their saftey harness.
Motor start-up
Before motor start-up
CAUTION! To ensure proper and safe use of the aircraft it is essential to familiarise yourself
with the motor’s limitations and motor manufacturer’s safety warnings. Before motor start-up
make sure the area in front of the aircraft is clear. It is recommended to start the motor up with
the aircraft’s nose pointing into the wind.
Check the state of charge to make sure there is sufficient battery power for the planned duration of
flight.
Make sure the pitot tube is uncovered and rescue parachute safety pin removed.
Apply the wheel brakes. Apply parking brake.
Motor start-up
See Motor Start-Up on page 2-5. If throttle lever is not in “idle” the motor/propeller will not start run-
ning. After moving the throttle lever to “idle”, apply power and the motor will start running.
CAUTION! If the motor RPM is less than 2000 or greater than 2500, check the system for cor-
rect installation. Do not proceed with flight.
Taxi
Release parking brake if set and release the handbrake. Taxiing technique does not differ from oth-
er aircraft equipped with a steerable nose wheel. Prior to taxiing it is essential to check the wheel
brakes for proper braking action.
Holding point
Make sure motor temperatures at full power range are within operational limits.
Make sure the safety belts are fastened and doors closed and secured at all three closing points.
For short field operations extend flaps 25o. For all other operations extend them to 15°.
Power idle.
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Normal procedures REV. 0
CAUTION! Keep adding power gradually, as sudden bursts of power can cause airframe dam-
age on certain runways due to rocks and debris.
WARNING! If the motor PWR is less than 60 kW at full throttle, ABORT TAKE OFF
IMMEDIATELY, come to a standstill and verify systems.
Start the takeoff roll pulling the control stick one third backward and lift the nose wheel off the
ground as you accelerate. Reaching 40-43 kts (75-80 km/h ), gently pull on the stick to get the aircraft
airborne.
CAUTION! Takeoff with crosswind (max 18 kts) should be performed with the control stick
pointed into the wind. Special attention should be paid to maintaining runway heading!
Initial climb
When airborne, apply brakes momentarily to prevent in-flight wheel spinning.
Accelerate at full power and maintain proper climbing speed.
When you reach 60 kts (110 km/h) above 150 ft (50 m), extend the flaps to 15o. Retract the flaps to 0o
after reaching 70 kts (130 km/h) at 300 ft (100 m). Reduce power to 40 kW and continue climbing at 76
kts (140 km/h).
Adjust the trim to neutralise stick force if necessary.
Remember to keep the motor temperatures and RPM within operational limits during climb out.
CAUTION! Reduce power and lower nose (i.e. increase speed) if additional motor cooling is
required.
Cruise
When horizontal flight has been established, verify on-board energy quantity again.
Keep the aircraft balanced while maintaining desired flight parameters.
CAUTION! In rough air, reduce motor power if necessary to keep airspeed below VNO.
For approach reduce speed to 70 kts (130 km/h) and extend flaps to 15o only after turning to base
leg.
Adjust motor power to maintain proper airspeed. Set the trim to neutralise stick force if necessary.
During the descent, monitor temperatures and keep them within operational limits.
CAUTION! With power lever set close to idle, the motor will recuperate energy during the de-
scent and the vertical sink speed will increase, similar to the effects of airbrakes on sailplanes.
CAUTION! Crosswind landings require higher final approach speeds to ensure safe maneuvra-
bility. Increase the approach speed by 1 kts for every 1 kts of crosswind component e.g. If there’s
a crosswind component of 5 kts, increase the approach speed by 5 kts.
CAUTION! Land the aircraft in such a manner that the two main wheels touch the ground first,
allow the nose-wheel touchdown only after speed has been reduced below 25 kts. When low-
ering the nose wheel to the runway the rudder MUST NOT be deflected in any direction (rudder
pedals centered).
When on the ground, start the braking action while holding the control stick in full back position.
Steer the aircraft using the rudder only. If the runway length is sufficient, come to a complete stand-
still without engaging the brakes, while holding the control stick slightly backwards as you slow
down.
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Normal procedures REV. 0
WARNING! If the crab method of drift correction has been used throughout the final ap-
proach and roundout, the crab must be recovered before the touchdown. Do this by applying
rudder to align the aircraft’s longitudinal axis with its direction of movement.
Parking
Come to a complete standstill by using the handbrake lever. Carry out Motor Shut-down (see page
2-5). Insert PRS handle’s safety pin. Apply the parking brake. Open cabin door, unfasten safety belts
and exit the cabin. Chock the wheels and cover the pitot tube with it’s protective sleeve.
7-10 ALPHA Electro www.pipistrel.eu
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8 Handling
and maintenance
Special inspections (8-2)
Tie down (8-3)
Storage (8-3)
Cleaning (8-3)
Keeping your aircraft in
perfect shape (8-5)
8-2 ALPHA Electro www.pipistrel.eu
REV. 0 Handling and maintenance
Special inspections
After having exceeded VNE or landed in a rough manner:
Check the undercarriage, fuselage & wing surfaces and main spars for abnormalities. It is highly
recommended to have the aircraft verified for airworthiness by authorised service personnel.
Battery inspection
Make sure the battery boxes are secure and that both cables are properly connected. Check for any
signs of wire/cable damage or shafing.
www.pipistrel.eu ALPHA Electro 8-3
Handling and maintenance REV. 0
Tie down
Point the aircraft into the wind and retract (0o) flaps fully. Chock all three wheels. Put an extra rope
around the tail-cone and into the slot between the propeller and the spinner. When using rope of a
non-synthetic material, leave sufficient slack to avoid damage to the aircraft. To tie down the tail, tie
a rope through the tail skid and secure it to the ground. When finished, cover the pitot tube with a
protection cover.
Storage
Ideally, the aircraft should be stored in a hangar. For increased in-hangar maneuvrability use of an
original Pipistrel push-cart is recommended. Stuff the battery bay cooling inlets with some foam or
a rag to prevent the ingress of dirt, dust, small animals, etc..
The PRS is installed in your aircraft, so make sure the activation handle safety pin is inserted every
time you leave the aircraft.
Should the aircraft be stored for a longer period of time (more than 6 months), disconnect the 12V
battery in the cockpit to prevent the battery from over-discharging during storage.
Cleaning
Use fresh water and a soft piece of cloth to clean the aircraft’s exterior. If you are unable to remove
certain spots, consider using mild detergents. Afterwards, rinse the entire surface thoroughly.
The Lexan surfaces are protected by an anti-scratch layer on the outside. To avoid damaging these
protective layers and coatings, always use fresh water only to clean the surfaces.
To protect the aircraft’s surface (excluding Lexan surfaces) from the environmental contaminants,
use high quality car wax.
The interior is to be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner.
Cover or stuff the battery pack cooling inlets with foam or protective tape to prevent water or clean-
ing solutions from entering the battery bays.
8-4 ALPHA Electro www.pipistrel.eu
REV. 0 Handling and maintenance
Precautions
Rubbing any of the aircraft’s surfaces aggressively or polishing any of them is not permitted and, if
necessary, can only be carried out by an approve maintenance organization.
Avoid the use of ALL aggressive cleaning solutions and organic solvents whenever possible, includ-
ing window cleaning spray, benzene, aggressive shampoos etc.
When flying in regions with a lot of bugs in the air the leading edges of the airframe (propeller,
wings, tail) need to be protected before flight with antistatic furniture spray cleaner such as Pronto
(transparent, manufacturer: Johnson Wax), or something equivalent. When using such spray, do not
apply it directly onto the wing but onto a soft cloth instead (old T-shirts are best).
After having finished with flight activity for the day, clean the leading edges of the airframe as soon
as possible with a lot of water and a drying towel (chamois, artificial leather skin). This will be very
easy to do if the leading edge was sprayed with an antistatic spray cleaner before flight.
CAUTION! Do not, under any circumstances attempt to use aggressive cleaning solutions, as
you will severely damage the lacquer, which is the only protective layer before the structural lam-
inate.
When using the aircraft in difficult atmospheric conditions (intense sunshine, dusty winds, coastline,
acid rains etc.) make sure to clean the outer surface more thoroughly.
CAUTION! Do not, under any circumstances attempt to remove such bug-spots with abrasive
sponges and/or rough polishing pastes.
Always rinse the shampooed surfaces again before they dry, then just wipe the whole aircraft dry
using a drying towel, chamois or artificial leather skin. Also, clean the control surface gap seals on
the empennage. Lift the seals gently and insert ONE layer of cloth underneath, then move along the
whole span of the seal.
CAUTION! Do not use the towel that was used to dry the airframe’s surfaces to dry the window
surfaces. Use another unused towel for the window surfaces.
Should the window surfaces be dusty, remove the dust first by pouring water (not spraying!) and
gliding your hand over the surface. Glide the drying towel over the surface, squeeze it out and soak
it before touching the Lexan again. If there are bugs on the windshield, soak them with plenty of wa-
ter first, so less wiping is necessary. After drying the window surface, apply some antistatic furniture
spray cleaner such as Pronto (transparent, manufacturer: Johnson Wax), or something similar and
wipe the surface clean with a separate soft cotton cloth.
This page is intentionally left blank.
www.pipistrel.eu ALPHA Electro 9-1
Appendix REV. 0
9 Appendix
PRS: use, handling and
maintenance (9-2)
Training/Familiarisation
supplement (9-4)
WARNING! Activation handle safety pin should be inserted when the aircraft is parked or
stored in a hangar to prevent accidental deployment. However, the instant pilot boards the air-
craft, the safety pin MUST be removed!
• mid-air collision
To deploy the parachute, firmly pull the activation handle out to-
wards the instrument panel until it extends at least 15” (38 cm) out of
it’s housing.
Once you have pulled the handle and the rocket has deployed, it will be about two seconds before
you feel the impact produced by two forces. The first force is that of the system stretching. The sec-
ond force follows after the canopy opens. It will seem as if the aircraft has pulled backwards briefly.
The airspeed is reduced instantly and the aircraft begins descending.
www.pipistrel.eu ALPHA Electro 9-3
Appendix REV. 0
As a pilot you should know that the phase following parachute deployment is unpredictable. If in
such a situation for the first time, understand that determining where to land and doing so properly
is out of your control.
CAUTION! Should you end up in power lines (carrying electrical current), DO NOT under any
circumstances touch any metal parts inside or outside the cockpit. This also applies to anyone
attempting to help or rescue you. Be aware that anyone touching any part of the aircraft while
standing on the ground will probably suffer mayor injury or die of electrocution. Therefore, you
are strongly encouraged to confine your movements until qualified rescue personnel arrives at
the site to assist you.
After the PRS has been used or if you suspect any possible damage to the system, do not hesitate
and immediately contact the manufacturer!
CAUTION! It is strongly recommended to thoroughly inspect and grease the activation han-
dle, preferably using silicon spray, every 50 flight hours.
Training/Familiarisation supplement
Pipistrel offers additional computer-based training for anyone interested in becoming more familiar
with the ALPHA Electro. Contact Pipistrel to find out more!
9-5 www.pipistrel.eu ALPHA Electro
Appendix REV. 0
Conversion tables
Kilometers per hour (km/h) - knots (kts) - meters per sec. (m/s)
km/h kts m/s km/h kts m/s km/h kts m/s
1,853 1 0,37 63,00 34 18,34 124,16 67 36,15
3,706 2 1,07 64,86 35 18,88 126,01 68 36,69
5,560 3 1,61 66,71 36 19,42 127,87 69 37,23
7,413 4 2,15 68,56 37 19,96 129,72 70 37,77
9,266 5 2,69 70,42 38 20,50 131,57 71 38,31
11,11 6 3,23 72,27 39 21,04 133,43 72 38,86
12,97 7 3,77 74,12 40 21,58 135,28 73 39,39
14,82 8 4,31 75,98 41 22,12 137,13 74 39,93
16,67 9 4,85 77,83 42 22,66 198,99 75 40,47
18,53 10 5,39 79,68 43 23,20 140,84 76 41,01
20,38 11 5,93 81,54 44 23,74 142,69 77 41,54
22,23 12 6,47 83,39 45 24,28 144,55 78 42,08
24,09 13 7,01 85,24 46 24,82 146,40 79 42,62
25,94 14 7,55 87,10 47 25,36 148,25 80 43,16
27,79 15 8,09 88,95 48 25,90 150,10 51 43,70
29,65 16 8,63 90,80 49 26,44 151,96 82 44,24
31,50 17 9,17 92,66 50 26,98 153,81 83 44,78
33,35 18 9,71 94,51 51 27,52 155,66 84 45,32
35,21 19 10,25 96,36 52 28,05 157,52 85 45,86
37,06 20 10,79 98,22 53 28,59 159,37 86 46,40
38,91 21 11,33 100,07 54 29,13 161,22 87 46,94
40,77 22 11,81 101,92 55 29,67 163.08 88 47,48
42,62 23 12,41 103,77 56 30,21 164,93 89 48,02
44,47 24 12,95 105,63 57 30,75 166,78 90 48,56
46,33 25 13,49 107,48 58 31,29 168,64 91 49,10
48,18 26 14,03 109,33 59 31,83 170,49 92 49,64
50,03 27 14,56 111,19 60 32,37 172,34 93 50,18
51,80 28 15,10 113,04 61 32,91 174,20 94 50,12
53,74 29 15,64 114,89 62 33,45 176,05 95 51,26
55,59 30 16,18 116,75 63 33,99 177,90 96 51,80
57,44 31 16,72 118,60 64 34,53 179,76 97 52,34
59,30 32 17,26 120,45 65 35,07 181,61 98 52,88
61,15 33 17,80 122,31 66 35,61 183,46 99 53,42
ALPHA Electro www.pipistrel.eu 9-6
REV. 0 Appendix
h h T T p p r g n*106
T/T0 p/p0 d 1/S d Vs (m2/s)
(m) (ft) (°C) (°K) (mmHg) (kg/m2) (kgs2/m4) (kg/m4)
-1000 -3281 21,5 294,5 1,022 854,6 11619 1,124 0,137 1,347 1,099 0,957 344,2 13,4
-900 -2953 20,8 293,8 1,020 844,7 11484 1,111 0,136 1,335 1,089 0,958 343,9 13,5
-800 -2625 20,2 293,2 1,018 835 11351 1,098 0,134 1,322 1,079 0,962 343,5 13,6
-700 -2297 19,5 292,5 1,015 825,3 11220 1,085 0,133 1,310 1,069 0,967 343,1 13,7
-600 -1969 18,9 291,9 1,013 815,7 11090 1,073 0,132 1,297 1,058 0,971 342,7 13,8
-500 -1640 18,2 291,2 1,011 806,2 10960 1,060 0,131 1,285 1,048 0,976 342,4 13,9
400 -1312 17,6 290,6 1,009 796,8 10832 1,048 0,129 1,273 1,039 0,981 342 14,0
300 -984 16,9 289,9 1,006 787,4 10705 1,036 0,128 1,261 1,029 0,985 341,6 14,1
200 -656 16,3 289,3 1,004 779,2 10580 1,024 0,127 1,249 1,019 0,990 341,2 14,3
100 -328 15,6 288,6 1,002 769,1 10455 1,011 0,126 1,237 1,009 0,995 340,9 14,4
0 0 15 288 1 760 10332 1 0,125 1,225 1 1 340,5 14,5
100 328 14,3 287,3 0,997 751,0 10210 0,988 0,123 1,213 0,990 1,004 340,1 14,6
200 656 13,7 286,7 0,995 742,2 10089 0,976 0,122 1,202 0,980 1,009 339,7 14,7
300 984 13,0 286,0 0,993 133,4 9970 0,964 0,121 -1,191 0,971 1,014 339,3 14,8
400 1312 12,4 285,4 0,991 724,6 9852 0,953 0,120 1,179 0,962 1,019 338,9 14,9
500 1640 11,1 284,7 0,988 716,0 9734 0,942 0,119 1,167 0,952 1,024 338,5 15,1
600 1969 11,1 284,1 0,986 707,4 9617 0,930 0,117 1,156 0,943 1,029 338,1 15,2
700 2297 10,4 283,4 0,984 699,0 9503 0,919 0,116 1,145 0,934 1,034 337,8 15,3
800 2625 9,8 282,8 0,981 690,6 9389 0,908 0,115 1,134 0,925 1,039 337,4 15,4
900 2953 9,1 282,1 0,979 682,3 9276 0,897 0,114 1,123 0,916 1,044 337 15,5
1000 3281 8,5 281,5 0,977 674,1 9165 0,887 0,113 1,112 0,907 1,049 336,6 15,7
1100 3609 7,8 280,8 0,975 665,9 9053 0,876 0,112 1,101 0,898 1,055 336,2 15,8
1200 3937 7,2 280,2 0,972 657,9 8944 0,865 0,111 1,090 0,889 1,060 335,8 15,9
1300 4265 6,5 279,5 0,970 649,9 8835 0,855 0,110 1,079 0,880 1,065 335,4 16,0
1400 4593 5,9 278,9 0,968 642,0 8728 0,844 0,109 1,069 0,872 1,070 335 16,2
1500 4921 5,2 278,2 0,966 634,2 8621 0,834 0,107 1,058 0,863 1,076 334,7 16,3
1600 5249 4,6 277,6 0,963 626,4 8516 0,824 0,106 1,048 0,855 1,081 334,3 16,4
1700 5577 3,9 276,9 0,961 618,7 8412 0,814 0,106 1,037 0,846 1,086 333,9 16,6
1800 5905 3,3 276,3 0,959 611,2 8309 0,804 0,104 1,027 0,838 1,092 333,5 16,7
1900 6234 2,6 275,6 0,957 603,7 8207 0,794 0,103 1,017 0,829 1,097 333,1 16,9
2000 6562 2 275 0,954 596,2 8106 0,784 0,102 1,006 0,821 1,103 332,7 17,0
2100 6890 1,3 274,3 0,952 588,8 8005 0,774 0,101 0,996 0,813 1,108 332,3 17,1
2200 7218 0,7 273,7 0,950 581,5 7906 0,765 0,100 0,986 0,805 1,114 331,9 17,3
2300 7546 0,0 273,0 0,948 574,3 7808 0,755 0,099 0,976 0,797 1,120 331,5 17,4
2400 7874 -0,6 272,4 0,945 576,2 7710 0,746 0,098 0,967 0,789 1,125 331,1 17,6
2500 8202 -1,2 271,7 0,943 560,1 7614 0,736 0,097 0,957 0,781 1,131 330,7 17,7
2600 8530 -1,9 271,1 0,941 553,1 7519 0,727 0,096 0,947 0,773 1,137 330,3 17,9
2700 8858 -2,5 270,4 0,939 546,1 7425 0,718 0,095 0,937 0,765 1,143 329,9 18,0
2800 9186 -3,2 269,8 0,936 539,3 7332 0,709 0,094 0,928 0,757 1,149 329,6 18,2
2900 9514 -3,8 269,1 0,934 532,5 7239 0,700 0,093 0,918 0,749 1,154 329,2 18,3
9-11 www.pipistrel.eu ALPHA Electro
Appendix REV. 0
- Throttle idle
BATTERY SOC < 10% - Abort mission (battery will disconnect by itself, de-
pends on the cell voltage)
Errors Pilot action
This error appears when inverter is ON and when motor RPM
ONLY ONE BATTERY PACK IS ACTIVE exceeds 300.
- Do not take-off
BATTERY 1/2 DISCONNECTED DUE TO Errors OVERTEMPERATURE, OVERCURRENT WHILE CHARGING and
[OVERCURRENT WHILE CHARGING, CELL UNDERVOLTAGE only appear while flying.
OVERTEMPERATURE, CONNECTOR DIS- - Reduce power immediately (battery will disconnect by
CONNECT, CELL UNVERVOLTAGE, CELL itself)
OVERVOLTAGE]
This error appears after turning the power enable switch on du-
ring ground operation. »X« represents the error number.
- Do not take-off
BATTERY 1/2 STARTUP FAILED CODE: X
- Note the number
- Report error number to technical support at
maintainance@pipistrel.si
This error appears when maximum inverter or motor temperature
is exceeded.
DRIVE OVERTEMPERATURE - Reduce power
- Monitor temperature
- If the temperature doesn`t drop abort mission
WARNING!!! The inverter may reduce power to 0 if and when
sensor failure happens.
DRIVE TEMPERATURE SENSOR FAILURE - Reduce power
- Abort mission
The error only appears during ground operation.
DRIVE COMMUNICATION FAILURE
- Abort mission ( in this case the start-up is not possible)
- Reduce power
COOLANT SENSOR FAILURE
- Abort mission
DC/DC COMMUNICATION FAILURE - Abort mission
DC/DC MALFUNCTION - Abort mission
This error appears when motor RPM exceeds 300.
DC/DC NOT WORKING
- Abort mission
When this error appears the power setting will stay on the last
value.
POWER LEVER COMMUNICATION FAILURE - Look for somewhere to land
- As soon as the landing spot is within the glide cone,
pull out the PWR CTRL circuit breaker and land
When this error appears, the motor and inverter don`t have power.
DRIVE AUX POWER FAILURE This error only appears during ground operation.
- Abort mission
This error indicates water pump failure and only appears during
ground operation.
PUMP AUX POWER FAILURE
- Abort mission
ALPHA Electro www.pipistrel.eu 9-12
REV. 0 Appendix
CHARGER
Errors Pilot action
- Abort charging
CONNECTOR UNLOCK FAILURE
- Contact technical support at maintainance@pipistrel.si
When this error appears, the cable between the charger and the
BALS UNLOCK FAILURE power source not plugged in properly.
- Disconnect and re-connect the charging cable
- Abort charging
POWER STAGE INPUT VOLTAGE FAILURE
- Contact technical support at maintainance@pipistrel.si
This error appears when the TC charging module isn‘t working.
TC NOT PRESENT
- Contact technical support at maintainance@pipistrel.si
RELAY TURN ON FAILURE - Contact technical support at maintainance@pipistrel.si
RELAY TURN OFF FAILURE FAILURE - Contact technical support at maintainance@pipistrel.si
BATTERY VOLTAGE DETECTION FAILURE - Contact technical support at maintainance@pipistrel.si
- Abort charging
COMMUNICATION FAILURE
- Contact technical support at maintainance@pipistrel.si
When this error appears, the cable between the aircraft and the
EA LOCK FAILURE charger is not plugged in properly.
- Disconnect and re-connect the charging cable
- Abort charging
BATTERY ACTIVATION FAILURE
- Contact technical support at maintainance@pipistrel.si
- Abort charging
CHARGING RELAY FAILURE
- Contact technical support at maintainance@pipistrel.si
- Abort charging
UNSUPPORTED BATTERY TYPE
- Contact technical support at maintainance@pipistrel.si
9-13 www.pipistrel.eu ALPHA Electro
REV. 0
Abbreviations legend
PRS - Parachute rescue system
SOC - State of charge
SOH - State of health
RPM - Revolutions per minute
m - Meters
ft - Feet
kg - Kilogram
km/h - Kilometers per hour
kts - Knots
MTOM - Maximum takeoff mass
POH - Pilot‘s operating handbook
sqft - Square feet
V - Volt
kW - Kilowatt
kWh - Kilowatt hour
BMS - Battery management system
ELT - Emergency locator transmitter
AC - Anti-collision
NAV - Navigation
LDG - Landing gear
IFR - Instrument flight rules
VFR - Visual flight rules
IMC - Instrument meteorogical conditions
MAC - Mean aerodynamic chord
IAS - Indicated airspeed
COM - Communication
PWR - Power
This page is intentionally left blank.
www.pipistrel.eu ALPHA Electro
REV. 0
Warranty statement/voids
For applicable warranty terms and conditions please refer to www.pipistrel.si.
Pipistrel d.o.o. Ajdovščina
podjetje za alternativno letalstvo
Goriška cesta 50a
SI-5270 Ajdovščina
Slovenija
www.pipistrel.si
www.pipistrel.eu